Non-verbalcommunication plays a fundamental role in all our daily interactions, especially when speaking in public, and it is not the first time we talk about it in this blog. Gestures are a fundamental part of this silent language and can reinforce or undermine our message. This is why we want to delve into the importance of the non-verbal, the good practices we can adopt and the most common mistakes we should avoid in order to to avoid in order to improve our communication as much as possible.
The importance of gestures in non-verbal communication
Gestures are body movements, especially of the hands, arms and head, that accompany verbal speech and convey messages or emotions without the need for words, helping to convey meaning. According to numerous sources, up to 70% of communication is transmitted through non-verbal signals, that is why they are fundamental to complement, reinforce or modify what we want to transmit with words.
How to reinforce the message with your gestures
To reinforce the message with gestures you should make sure that your movements are consistent with what you are saying. Gestures should always complement your words and add clarity or emphasis, never distract or confuse. Let’s see how we can use them effectively to improve our communication:
Use natural gestures
Don’t exaggerate or force your movements. Your gestures should be an extension of your personality and flow spontaneously and naturally so as not to appear artificial.
Accompany your keywords and focus clearly.
When you want to highlight an important idea , use a gesture that underlines it or use gestures that help that help illustrate what you want to convey. For example, hold up one finger when listing a key point; or when listing ideas, use your fingers to count.
Be consistent
Make sure your gestures match the tone and content of your message. If you are talking about something positive, your gestures should be open and friendly. Conversely, if you are talking about something negative, gestures should reflect the tone and seriousness of the subject without appearing overly dramatic.
Controls speed and amplitude
Maintain movements that are neither too fast nor too wide, as this may distract the audience or indicate nervousness.
Avoid repetitive or unnecessary gestures
Do not repeat the same gesture too many times or use irrelevant gestures that do not add to the message.
Maintain eye contact with the entire audience
Looking at different parts of the audience while you speak not only creates a connection, but also allows your message to resonate better.
Preparing a visual script
If possible, make a visual script in advance that includes the gestures you plan to use at different points in your presentation . you plan to use at different points in your presentation. This can help you remember which gestures are appropriate at which times.
Some examples of good use of gestures
1. Mirar a los ojos de tu interlocutor mientras sonríes ligeramente demuestra interés, cercanía y amabilidad. Este gesto fortalece el vínculo y hace que tu mensaje sea más cálido. 2. Mantener las manos abiertas y a la vista transmite honestidad y apertura. Es un gesto que invita a la confianza y a la transparencia. 3. Señalar con toda la mano, en lugar de apuntar con el dedo, es más respetuoso y amigable, evitando que el gesto se perciba como agresivo. 4. Levantar el pulgar hacia arriba. Este gesto es universalmente reconocido como una señal de aprobación o de que algo está bien. Te ayuda a reforzar un mensaje positivo. 5. Usar las manos para indicar el tamaño de algo (grande o pequeño) ayuda a visualizar mejor lo que estás explicando y da más claridad a tu mensaje. 6. Llevar la mano al corazón. Este gesto expresa sinceridad, empatía o gratitud. Refuerza la idea de que lo que estás diciendo proviene de una emoción o una intención genuina. 7. Enumerar puntos, levantando los dedos uno a uno, para marcar cada idea refuerza la estructura de tu discurso, ayudando a que la audiencia siga el hilo de la conversación. 8. Mover las manos suavemente para acompañar el discurso ayuda a enfatizar ideas y a dar fluidez a tu discurso sin distraer. Da la sensación de que estás en control y conectado con lo que dices.
Common mistakes to avoid to improve your non-verbal communication
To improve our non-verbal communication when speaking in public, it is essential to be aware of the gestures we should avoid, so we are now going to talk about the most common mistakes that can weaken or misinterpret the message you are trying to convey. Inconsistent gestures, excessive or repetitive gesticulating or using inappropriate or closed gestures can hinder the transmission of the message. Here are some examples: 1. Crossing your arms conveys a defensive, closed or disinterested attitude. In a friendly conversation or meeting, this gesture can make others think you are defensive or unresponsive. 2. Excessive hand movements distract the listener and cause them to lose focus of the message, especially when they are not aligned with the verbal content. They indicate nervousness or lack of control over what you are saying. 3. Not making eye contact, or avoiding eye contact, creates distrust, insecurity or even indifference, and will cause the other person to feel that you are not engaged or sincere. 4. Playing with objects or touching shows nervousness or distraction. These kinds of repetitive and anxious gestures make you appear insecure or not focused on the conversation. 5. Putting your hands in your pockets suggests insecurity, nervousness or disinterest. In important professional or social situations it can give the impression that you lack confidence or are not committed to the subject. 6. Pointing your finger directly at someone seems aggressive, accusatory or authoritarian. Instead of pointing at people, use more open hand gestures to emphasise points without being confrontational. 7. Crossing your legs in a tense and closed manner gives a feeling of emotional or physical blockage. This gesture indicates discomfort or rejection, so it is better to maintain a more relaxed and open posture. 8. Constantly rubbing your face or touching your neck gives the impression of nervousness, doubt or insecurity. Especially in interviews or important meetings, doing this frequently can be distracting and project a lack of confidence. 9. The total absence of gestures makes you appear stiff or unnatural. While it is important not to overdo it, not making any gestures at all can make your communication seem too mechanical or cold. 10. Looking at your watch or phone while talking with someone can show lack of interest or impatience. This gesture conveys that you are in a hurry or that what the other person is saying is not important to you.
Practice is crucial in order to improve your non-verbal communication.
Starting with good spokesperson training is key, but it will not be enough. Then it’s time to practice, practice, practice. Recording your presentations or public speaking and observing your gestures will allow you to identify areas for improvement. In addition, feedback from your peers can also help you to identify areas for improvement. Finally, it is important not to forget to have confidence in yourself and to visualise success. Before your presentation, imagine how you would like it to go. This will help you to increase your confidence and do much better.
Concluding
Our gestures are, without a doubt, a powerful tool in our non-verbal language and using them well can significantly improve our communication significantly improve our communication when speaking in public. By being aware of the most common mistakes to avoid and practising gestures to and practising some gestures that help us reinforce our message, will help us become more effective communicators and much more captivating to our audience. The key is authenticity; your gestures should reflect who you are and how you feel about the you feel about the subject you are talking about. With practice and attention, you can better connect with your audience and make your message your message resonate much more effectively. Go for it! And if you need help with that, we’re here for you.
